Are letters that restate my resume useful?

They help very little. In the EB-1, recommendation letters that merely restate what is already on your resume tend to add little value, because they provide no additional context and do not demonstrate your impact. The strongest letters go beyond a list of titles and accomplishments.

A strong letter offers an expert assessment: it places your achievements in a broader context, explains why they matter to the field, and describes the concrete effects of your work. Detailing specific projects and outcomes typically carries more weight than restating your CV.

• Favor letters that interpret and contextualize, rather than repeat your resume.
• Ask for concrete examples of your impact and your recognition in the field.
• Choose writers who can speak with authority about your contributions.

Because each case is evaluated on the totality of the evidence, it is worth reviewing the current criteria with the USCIS and planning your letters with the support of a specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.